Focusing on writing can feel impossible in today’s world full of deadlines and distractions. EMMA CLARKE shares six free digital tools to help freelance writers balance creativity and efficiency.
Are your folders filled with half-finished drafts? Do your browser tabs seem to multiply endlessly? Does finding the right words feel like fumbling through the dark?
If so, you’re not alone. According to a 2021 Horizon Research survey, professional writers in New Zealand spent as much time on non-writing tasks as they do honing their craft. With limited time to put pen to paper (or fingers to keys), it’s no wonder most writers feel stretched thin.
Whether you’re a newbie freelancer or an experienced novelist, these six handy tools can help you streamline and supercharge your writing.
1. Transcribe your interviews
For reporters, Otter.ai is a game changer. It’s easy to use: simply upload a recording of your interview, and the programme takes care of the rest.
One standout feature is its ability to generate a summary and outline of an interview. You can also highlight key quotations and add comments, and the keyword search function makes finding specific moments in your recordings a breeze.
The free version includes 300 monthly minutes (equivalent to five hour-long interviews), making it an ideal tool for beginner freelance journalists and veterans alike.
2. Employ artificial intelligence
The recent surge of AI technology has sparked some debate, especially within writing communities.
However, AI chatbots can strengthen your writing when used strategically. ChatGPT, launched in 2022 by OpenAI, is a popular model that comes in handy for more than text generation.
But don’t just take my word for it. Let’s see what ChatGPT has to say:
Associate professor, researcher and author Dr Trent J. Lythgoe suggests treating ChatGPT (and similar AI tools) as a moderately skilled research assistant. That is, it’s helpful but not foolproof; all output requires a human eye to ensure accuracy and context.
Before you dive in, check out these tips for using ChatGPT to boost your writing.
3. Enhance your vocabulary
We’ve all been there. That elusive word is sitting right on the tip of your tongue, just out of reach. If that resonates, OneLook Thesaurus deserves a spot in your writer’s toolkit.
What sets it apart from a regular thesaurus is its ability to find synonyms for phrases as well as individual words. Think of it as a ‘super thesaurus’. For instance, type ‘strong wind’ into OneLook Thesaurus, and it suggests options like ‘gale, storm, tempest, hurricane, tornado’ – just five of the 80 potential synonyms available.
This intuitive tool is a lifesaver for writer’s block. See for yourself:
4. Minimise digital distractions
Perfect for anyone who struggles with self-control, StayFocusd is a Google Chrome extension designed to, as the name suggests, help you stay focused.
If browsing is eating into your writing time, this tool has you covered. You can block specific websites, set daily usage limits and schedule focused work hours to curb procrastination.
Not sure which sites to block? No problem. StayFocusd allows you to block the entire internet except for your selected essential sites.
READ MORE:
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- Five Apps to Kick-start Your Magazine Journalism Career
5. Speed up your research
Digging through sources can be time-consuming and tricky. Liner, an AI-powered research tool designed for students and researchers, is a major time saver for finding credible sources on any topic.
To use it, just enter your research question or topic, and the software provides multiple sources with full citations. Another helpful feature is Liner’s ability to summarise academic articles, while its browser extension gathers information directly from PDFs and YouTube videos.
Watch this short video to learn more.
6. Build a writing portfolio
As a freelance writer, it’s essential to have a portfolio to share with prospective publishers and editors. The online publishing platform Substack is the perfect showcase.
The main appeal is its simplicity and cost-free setup. Combining blog-style writing with a newsletter platform, Substack allows writers to share their content directly with subscribers, with options for free and paid subscriptions. To build your audience, be sure to outline your writing goals and the topics readers can expect from your publication.
Substack also offers excellent networking opportunities. Your account allows you to follow like-minded writers, engage in discussions and explore new writing ideas.
No time to waste
Being a twenty-first-century writer is a balancing act between creativity and countless other demands vying for your attention. The upside is that you don’t have to struggle alone – technology is here to help.
Bookmark this writer’s toolkit for when you’re stuck on your next draft or you feel your focus start to slip. After all, the more time you dedicate to your craft, the better you’ll become. Let these tools make the most of your time so that you can make the most of your writing.
About the Author
Emma Clarke is a freelance writer and teacher based in Aotearoa New Zealand. First published at age 12 in her local newspaper, she also has degrees in Media and Communications, Psychology, and HR. When not teaching, you’ll find her identifying native birds on local walks, setting up her rooftop tent for a quiet retreat, or getting lost in a good book or blog. Follow Emma’s Substack journey at https://worldtowrites.substack.com/.
